Now as I am sure you know I am a fan of all things Vulpine, having previously reviewed their Merino Polo and Lightweight Harrington. This time I am reviewing the staple of the Vulpine range – the Merino T-Shirt. In essence this is is the same as last years model, but is available in some new colours – Claret, Astral Blue, Fern Green and Grey.
The Ultimate Cycling T-Shirt?
Is this the ultimate cycling t-shirt? I certainly think so – it wicks sweat like a demon, is soft like a cloud and is cut perfectly for both on and off bike use. It’s in no way a body hugging Lycra-style fit so it doesn’t look out of place in the pub or in the office.
The merino used in this T-shirt is the highest grade wool from the best Tasmanian sheep and really is the softest I’ve felt. It’s so soft and light it’s almost possible to forget that you’re wearing anything at all – sadly another company has coined the “better than naked” line already but this T certainly fits that description.
I am fortunate enough to have 2 Vulpine merino items and I alternate these for my commutes to work – the merino does a mighty fine job of resisting odours so I am as fresh on the 3rd day of wear as I am on the first.
The T-Shirt has a single buttoned pocket on the rear which I’ve actually found quite useful for carrying my Oyster card on the days where I’ve been able to cycle without a jacket and have thrown my wallet in my bag. There’s also some subtle reflective detail on the rear to help you be seen when the light starts to fade. Talking of being seen, I have the Fern Green colourway which is a lovely vivid colour, and close to the Vulpine signature green.
If you follow the care instructions – cool wash, don’t use conditioner and dry flat – the t-shirt washes well and doesn’t bobble (which I have experienced with cheaper Merino items in the past).
I’ve been so impressed with this T-shirt that I’ve just ordered the Vulpine Alpine Jersey to wear on my upcoming End to End ride, and I am sure that will perform as faultlessly in that environment as this has in the city.
Pricing and availability
The T-Shirt is available from Vulpine’s website and also at select retailers and is priced at £55.
5/5 – cycling t-shirts don’t get better than this.
Nice review! I recently tested the Icebreaker bike jersey (with zipper and three pockets on the back) and I liked it very much – especially the fact that you can wear it several times without washing and without stinking. definitely looking for more merino stuff.
I just love merino. I have to dry my clothing in office and found merino does not stink unlike other top brand jerseys and baselayers.
Additionally I had to wash non merino jersey daily and wear new baselayers.
With merino I can wear them for a week before Washing them on the weekend.
I have slowly replaced all my cycling jerseys and baselayers with merino equivalents. Icebreaker baselayers and jerseys are simply astounding quality. Endura baabaa brand is really good too.
I have not tried vulpine but it woulde my next purchase if I need it.
Cornwall-based company Finisterre make merino t-shirts from locally produced wool. I have some of their jackets which are great for cycling, and ethically produced. (No, I’m not getting paid for this, I really like their products.)
Just got my 1st Merino shirt from Howies, I cannot believe how soft the fabric is, and how light. I have a couple of tours coming up this year and if it can be worn for a number of days then its well worth the investment. I will be looking for more Merino clothing.
But a t-shirt for £55? Is it just me thinking it’s ridiculously expensive?
Sure It’s expensive, but the base material is expensive to start with. Merino is to cotton what gold is to tin. It compares favourably with many man made fibre base layers too. I think this is very much a case of you get what you pay for. Definitely take your point though!
Is the reflective detail you mention the line below the button on the pocket? or is there more?